The best free parking areas in Brindisi

We were invited to an aperitif on the seafront, right in the center. It was a great idea. The problem, as often happens, was finding a place to park. Near the Castle, parking spots are very few. It's almost impossible to find one, even if you pay. We had a full hybrid car, so we could park for free in blue zones. But the issue wasn't the cost: there simply weren't any spots. Parking in the center is really limited. Some days, part of the center is closed to traffic for the ZTL (limited traffic zone).

We had to choose between via Tor Pisana and via Spalato. The place was on the seafront. Walking in the heat, even for ten minutes, can be stressful. So, we chose via Spalato, which is slightly closer to Lungomare Regina Margherita.

There was also a psychological aspect: my wife, who's always a bit anxious, felt reassured knowing via Spalato is near the Police.

For me, the choice was mainly practical. To reach via Tor Pisana, near the train station, we'd have to go through via Appia, which is often busy. Via Spalato is easier to reach from outside the city, avoiding congested areas.

In the end, via Spalato was the most logical choice. You can park for free, with no time limits or tickets, for your entire stay. It's not just about saving money: no need to worry about paper tickets or apps for blue zones. You don't have to check time slots or return to renew parking. Park and enjoy your evening.

You can reach the historic center from via Spalato in about 10 minutes on foot. It's really just ten minutes, but if it's hot, especially in the morning, the walk can feel tougher than it seems. There aren't many big trees for continuous shade. It's better to wear comfortable shoes, definitely not heels, because you'll be walking on sunny asphalt and sidewalks.

But then something happens that makes the walk worth it. When you reach the port, the promenade opens up in front of you, with water gathered like in a large natural inlet.

You see the Virgilian Staircase, the Roman Columns, and a bit further, the Sailor's Monument dominating the port entrance. It's always a surprising arrival: you go from an ordinary street to one of the city's most iconic spots in just a few steps.

Honestly, I had already seen those sights the night before during a nice walk in the Casale, the neighborhood on the other side of the port. Parking was much, much easier there. That's why I believe that, in many situations, the best solution is to leave the car at Casale, near the airport, and then reach the center by motorboat. This way, you avoid the stress of traffic and parking, and you also enjoy a short trip across the port, which becomes part of the visit.